Does microneedling hurt?

A client rests her hand on a soft blanket while a provider holds a cooling stone

Settle sensation before treatment day

Before the day of treatment, ask your provider three things in this order. First, what you will feel. Second, what is used to manage it. Third, what the plan is if it becomes too much.

Where to look for sensation notes

Reading the sources helps you ask better questions. Start with the ASDS page on microneedling. Read it for any mention of sensation, numbing or recovery.

Some sources cover radiofrequency microneedling, which is a related method. If your provider offers it, these give you background:

These are written for clinicians. Scan them for words like pain, discomfort, anesthesia and settings, then ask your provider what those mean for you.

Four questions on discomfort

Ask your provider:

  1. Which device and method will you use on me?
  2. What do you use to manage discomfort?
  3. Can the settings be changed if I am uncomfortable?
  4. What should my skin look and feel like afterward?

Who sets your comfort level

This site reads microneedling documents and performs no treatments, so it gives no medical advice. Your own comfort level, skin and treatment settings are decided with a licensed provider.